Candidates quibble over debate, plan to make it happen

WAUSAU – Plans for a debate between U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy, a Wausau Republican, and Democratic challenger Kelly Westlund have hit a snag, but staff members from both campaigns hope to schedule one yet.

Daily Herald Media, the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy & Service, Wisconsin Public Radio and television stations from the area are partnering to set up debates in Wausau for local candidates.

Duffy represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District. This is Westlund’s first federal campaign, but she has served three years on the Ashland City Council. Green Party candidate Lawrence Dale is also in the running for Duffy’s seat.

“(Duffy’s) just stalling on these debates,” said Joe Florio, communications director for Westlund’s campaign. “He was happy to debate in 2010 and 2012. We’re not sure why he’s stalling now.”

Organizers of the debate said there was a bit of back-and-forth between them and the Duffy campaign regarding the format of the debate. They said the dates presented by the Duffy campaign came later in the discussion and were not the same as dates presented by the organizers.

But in a statement, a Duffy spokesman insists on the campaign’s interest in such a forum.

“The only people holding things up are the organizers or our opponent,” said the statement, sent via email Monday from Duffy campaign political director Jory DeLoach. It said the campaign provided multiple dates that work with Duffy’s schedule.

“The available dates coincided with dates the WIPPS facility is open, according to their spokesman, so we’re hopeful this will be finalized soon,” the statement concluded.

Florio expressed hope that the debate will take place. “We’re still positive that this will happen,” he said.

Organizers have not announced a set date that will work for all parties involved as well as the facility.

Candidates for the state Assembly Districts 85 and 86 will face off in the first Wausau-area debate at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the University of Wisconsin Marathon County’s James F. Veninga Theater.

These state and congressional races will conclude with the Nov. 4 general election.

Nora G. Hertel can be reached at 715-845-0665. Find her on Twitter as @nghertel.